Indonesia expects 2.1 million Chinese tourists this year

"We expect Chinese visitors to be convinced of the appropriateness of Indonesia as a tourist destination."

Indonesia has since September 2014 prepared to receive more Chinese, especially during China's Lunar New Year, known in the island nation as Imlek, he says.

"For the preparations of the Imlek, we have cooperated with all stakeholders and made preparations in several provinces, including how to organize celebrations for welcoming Chinese visitors."

The tropical nation will witness a total solar eclipse on March 9, about a month after this year's Imlek rush.

"There will be 10 cities where you can witness the eclipse, which happens once in hundreds of years. The longest eclipse will be visible in Sulawesi Island－six minutes ... Preparations have been made to welcome visitors to experience the rare event, including facilities at sea," he says.

Over a hundred yachts and a replica of the legendary ship from Indonesia's ancient Majapahit Kingdom will offer views of the eclipse around Bangka Belitung Island.

Separately, several Indonesian destinations host sites visited by acclaimed Chinese explorer Zheng He, who pioneered the ancient Maritime Silk Road in the 15th century.

"We have a celebration of the journey of Commodore Cheng Ho (Zheng He) every year," Pitana says.

Indeed, it seems likely more Chinese will be following in his footsteps, half a millennia later, to explore the island nation, as tourists rather than traders.